2005 Les Hauts du Colombier Vacqueyras Cuvee Centenaire Vieilles Vignes Rhone

2005 Les Hauts du Colombier Vacqueyras Cuvee Centenaire Vieilles Vignes Rhone Valley France
Suggested retail price $16-$18

Location: Created in the 30’s, the Vacqueyras appellation is nestled in the heart of the “Côtes du Rhône Méridionales” (the southern part of the Rhone Valley). It is situated south of Gigondas and northeast of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, in the foothills of the “Dentelles de Montmirail”.

Vacqueyras is an AOC, part of the 13th classified Crus of Côtes du Rhône. The yield, based on 35 hl per hectare, is one of the lower yielding compare to the rest of the other French AOCs, allowing for better concentration and structure.

Les Hauts du Colombier is one of the estates owned and bottled by Jean-Louis Mourre, part of the “Domaine Les Vignobles Mourre”. Les Hauts du Colombier consist of 7 hectares (15 acres) of vines planted on very complex chalky soils of mixed small stones and earth lying on layers of clay and limestone. The average age of the vines is 50 years old, with the oldest ones planted in 1902.

Vinification: Under the very skillful eye of owner-winemaker Jean-Louis Mourre, the hand-harvested grapes were destemmed and sorted. The maceration and fermentation occurred in stainless steel vats and lasted about 5 weeks. The wine was then transferred to concrete vats where it aged for at least 6 months before a final light filtration and bottling. This wine doesn’t see any oak in order to maintain the freshness, fruitiness and natural expression of the terroir rather than the oak flavors. The structure and the tannins are brought naturally by the fruit and not by the oak ageing. Only 2200 cases were produced.

Description: A blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Mourvèdre, it boasts aromas of wild forest berries, cassis, coffee, spices and light chocolate hints. The balanced palate offers flavors of wild red and dark berries and garrigues mixed with earthy notes. A touch rustic yet silky, the tannins are well integrated and bring a lovely structure to this earthy wine. The finish is elegant, long, juicy and concentrated. Perfect for the fall-winter season and very enjoyable now after 30 minutes of opening, this wine will also greatly benefit from 2-8 years of cellaring.

Food Pairing: this wine will enhance strong flavored red meat, duck en sauce, and typical Mediterranean grilled dishes and aged cheeses.

Info provided by the importer: Jerome Selection

LeDom du Vin